Following a controversial court ruling in the state of Kano, Nigeria, the local police force has sent out a strong message to potential protesters to be peaceful and restrained. However, calls have been made for calmer political tensions in the state, whose political temperatures have risen since the recent gubernatorial case verdict.
Thе Kano Policе Command’s statеmеnt, delivered by Commissionеr of Policе Mohammеd Usaini Gumеl, was clеar in its mеssagе: refrain from doing things that may cause violence. The warning particularly targeted supporters of the NNPP and APC who were reported to be planning street protests against the verdict of the Kano State Governorship Appeal Court.
The court’s decision to support APC candidate Nasiru Gawuna and sack governor Abba Yusuf of NNPP continues to provoke controversy throughout the state. The police, aware of the possible unrest but having received no formal notice of the planned protests, have warned against any illegal activities that will attract legal consequences.
Earlier, NNP and APC had appended their signatures to a peace treaty ensuring non-violence and cooperation with security agencies. The accord was an active measure aimed at the preservation of order and peace in the state, especially after the volatile election ruling.
Due to the planned protests, a multi-agency security force comprising police has been deployed to critical points within Kano State with an aim of ensuring safety and averting violent incidents. The police have emphasized the necessity for law-abiding and peaceful behavior at that time of political uncertainty.
According to Vanguard, the Kano Police command has urged all residents to avoid illegally gathering or making protests that may increase the escalation of tension. The police’s commitment towards protecting lives and properties in the said state have been reinforced emphasizing on public cooperation to report all suspicious activities.
Given that Kano Statе is going through a very challenging political terrain, law enforcement plays an important role in ascertaining peace and order. The police’s proactive stance as well as the collaboration of the community, will ensure that the state remains a safe and stable environment for every resident.
